In an increasing number of cities, travelers can check their bags at remote sites that include hotel lobbies, parking lots and car rental facilities. There are those extra fees for using these services, but many travelers are finding that the convenience outweighs the cost.

Last-minute changes to the Olympic torch's route through the only North American city on its world tour helped it evade not only protesters, but also fans who lined up for hours waiting for a historic sight that never arrived.